Not your standard racing game. But not quite the destruction you might be after.

User Rating: 7.1 | FlatOut PS2
Flatout has two basic modes. In one you are a career racer that needs to win races to upgrade your car and move on to the next level. The other is a series of mini-games that are used to break up the boredom that can come when playing this game.

Gameplay: For the most part Flatout is a racing game. However you can use your car in a destructive manner to win the race and to just cause mayhem around the track. Sounds like fun doesn't it?

Well first off one thing that will quickly annoy you about this game. Is the ease your driver is tossed out of the car as a "rag-doll." Thankfully "rag-doll" mode can be turned off and spare you this in career mode.

Next is that no matter which car you use or what upgrades you purchase. It appears all drivers are evenly matched. I am all for exciting races but when I put a guy into the wall and his car is nearly destroyed. I do not think he should have the same power and handling my less damaged car has and be able to catch back up with me before the lap we are on is up.

The damage to your car has to be monitored because if you bust your car up too much you are out of the race.

Now for some good. Career mode is not all that difficult. You can win most of the races and move on through the three levels, bronze, silver, and gold.

I know you are now saying; "What about if I get tired of racing? Also where is all the destruction and these mini-games?"

The mini-games are a bit varied and some are fun. My three favorites are the demolition derby where you do your best to take out the other cars before your car is destroyed. The other is the rag-doll bowling. My third favorite is the rag-doll high jump.

Graphics: Are well above average on this game. Even in just career mode the eye candy is done quite well. When you start playing the mini-games you will see some good eye candy too.

Sound: This game is a racing game. The background music is okay but nothing above average though.

Value: Flatout is not your typical racer. Nor is it really a game of demolition derby. Overall I would only get this game if you want something that is different then most racing games that are out now. Other then that I would either rent it or get it pre-played or from the bargain bin.

Tilt: This game again will not hold the attention of many gamers who are in to racing games. The mini-games are what really make this game worth getting. Beyond that this game would just be your average racer game.